Firefighter to cycle from Land’s End to John O’ Groats for charity (From Gazette & Herald)

Kathryn Lazenby, from Terrington, to cycle from Land’s End to John O’ Groats for charity

11:39am Wednesday 1st September 2010 in News By Karen Darley

A FIREFIGHTER is aiming to fulfil a life-long dream of cycling from one end of the country to the other.

Kathryn Lazenby, from Terrington, is taking on the challenge of riding solo and unsupported from Land’s End to John O’ Groats, staying at fire stations along the route.

Based at York Fire Station, Kathryn is aiming to raise around £2,000 for Macmillan Cancer Care and The Fire Fighters Charity.

“As a firefighter I am keen to support the firefighters charity and decided to start my ride on September 11 as this date is the ninth anniversary of the terrorist atrocity on the twin towers where nearly 350 firefighters lost their lives,” she said.

“Every year thousands of firefighters are injured while protecting the public.

“The Fire Fighters Charity is here for all fire service personnel during their times of need and assists thousands of individuals every year, by providing pioneering treatment and support services.”

Kathryn added that she had also decided to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Care after a friend was diagnosed with leukaemia.

“After researching leukaemia care I came across Macmillan and was surprised to see the level of work they do, having only been previously aware of Macmillan Nurses,” she said.

“Macmillan Cancer Support improves the lives of people affected by cancer and the provide practical, medical and financial support and push for better cancer care.”

Kathryn added that she was funding the trip herself so all funds raised would go to the two charities.

“For as long as I can remember I have always wanted to cycle from one end of the country to the other,” she said.

“I feel that if offers a great challenge especially as I am doing the event solo and unsupported.”

Kathryn, who aims to arrive at John O’ Groats on September 26, said she would also like to thank CC Enterprises, Haxby Cycles, Zyro in Thirsk and Evans Cycles in York.

Anyone who would like to support Kathryn can do so by visiting www.justgiving.com/Kathryn-Lazenby